Classis of Central California

Classis Minutes

Fall Stated Session

September 24, 2005 – Church of the Cross, Modesto, California

I. OPENING OF CLASSIS

Opening Prayer: President Ben Sweet opened the Fall 2005 Stated Session at 9:05 a.m. with prayer.

II. ENROLLMENT OF DELEGATES, INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND GRANTING THE PRIVILEGE OF THE FLOOR TO GUESTS

· The Classis Enrollment Register was passed around for the delegates and guests to register their attendance. See Attachment I.

· Requests for leave of absence were received from CCBA Elders, Tim Boeve, David Chu, Dwayne Decker, Don Hammond and Jeff Kreiser.

· President Sweet welcomed the delegates and guests and granted the privilege of the floor to all present. The following special guests were introduced: Pomin Wang, Steve & Hope Germoso, Ron and Leann Nunez and Joel Harlow.

III. PRAISE, CELEBRATION, WORSHIP

· The Church of the Cross Praise Team opened the worship service by leading the singing of several praise songs.

· Steve and Hope Germoso, Students Under Care of Classis (Western Seminary) gave the devotional message based on Genesis 26:12 – 23, which centered on staying focused on God’s promises to his people, particularly during those times when our vision is blurred by the enemy “throwing dirt in our wells.”

IV. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

ACTION #1: M/S -- To approve the minutes of the March 12, 2005 Stated Session. CARRIED.

V. SERVANT TEAM REPORT

President Sweet reported on his visits to several classis churches over the last six months and gave a summary of the praises and concerns that were raised during his visits.

President Sweet reviewed the following Servant Team recommendations that required a classis vote:

1. Late last summer (2004) the Cornerstone Consistory notified the Servant Team of their intent to sell the church property at 607 Trinity Ave. in Chowchilla to help finance the construction of their new campus. Their loan application/financing plan included an anticipated selling price of $300,000. Tim Vink, Don Werkhoven and Ben Sweet met with the consistory to discuss the continuing interest of the classis in the property for a developing Hispanic ministry under the direction of Eddy Aleman. It was learned that Cornerstone Community Church had invested $156,000 for improvements to the property. An agreement was reached in which the classis would reimburse CCC for the cost of the improvements ($156,000) and provide a building fund gift of $144,000, contingent on the successful sale of the Elk Grove property. Upon conclusion of this transaction the property would then be sold to Iglesia Emmanuel.

ACTION #2: M/S -- To approve the recommendation of the Servant Team to reimburse Cornerstone Community Church for expenses related to improvements to the church property located at 607 Trinity Ave. in Chowchilla ($156,000) and to provide a building fund gift of $144,000, for a total of $300,000, all contingent on the sale of the Elk Grove property. Upon conclusion of the sale, the classis will offer to sell the property to Iglesia Emmanuel, with terms to be negotiated at a later date. CARRIED.

2. President Sweet reported that the Cornerstone consistory had submitted a request to amend their bylaws. This amendment would change the method in which consistory members are elected. The reason given for this amendment is the desire to move away from the current ballot system that, as the church has grown larger, has become more of a popularity vote than a ‘spirit-led’ decision. The procedure for nominating and preparing a slate for consistory vacancies would remain the same. The only change would be placing the names of those on the slate in a hat, with the names drawn being those selected to serve (casting lots method).

ACTION #3: M/S -- To approve the request from Consistory of Cornerstone Community Church to amend their bylaws by change the method in which consistory members are elected from a member voting ballot system to a ‘casting lots’ method. CARRIED.

3. President Ben Sweet reported that the Regional Synod of the Far West recently approved a policy establishing a Legacy Giving program that will be used to fund new pastor development, leadership training, and church planting efforts. To fund this program the Regional Synod representatives adopted a plan that would require that 2.5% of the net proceeds (up to a maximum of $50,000) from the sale of any church property in the region be given to the Legacy program. Ben stated that this policy would require that $50,000 of the Elk Grove property proceeds be earmarked for the Regional Synod Legacy Giving program.

ACTION #4: M/S -- To designate $50,000 from the Elk Grove property proceeds to the Regional Synod Legacy Giving program. CARRIED.

4. President Sweet reported that the classis received a non-refundable $50,000 deposit on the Elk Grove property from Centex Homes. Escrow is scheduled to close in late March 2006. Although the Servant Team has developed some preliminary plans for how the $4 million should be allocated, considerably more discussion and prayer is needed before a plan is finalized. The Servant Team has proposed the following general distribution plan: 75% for new church planting; 10% for leadership development; 10% for church revitalization; 5% for mission and discipleship. It has also been suggested that the funds invested by churches for planting Celebration Life Ministries be returned to these churches for further investment in new church planting. In an effort to be good stewards of all that God has provided, the Servant Team has determined that a temporary committee should be formed to develop recommendations for the use of these funds. The Servant Team is requesting the names of people who have a proven track record of wise financial stewardship and Christian charitable giving to serve on this committee. These names should be given to Don Werkhoven, who will then contact these people. The goal is for the committee to have its recommendations ready for Servant Team review in early February 2006.

A question was raised about the recommendations for use of the Elk Grove funds contained in the May 24, 2005 Servant Team minutes. Ben indicated that all the recommendations have been withdrawn, except those pertaining to designated funds for Cornerstone Community Church and the Regional Synod Legacy Giving program.

ACTION #5: M/S -- To approve the Servant Team recommendation to form a temporary committee to develop recommendations for use of the funds resulting from the sale of the Elk Grove property. CARRIED.

ACTION #6: M/S -- To accept the Servant Team report as presented. CARRIED.

Intercessory prayers were offered for wisdom and discernment for those who will serve on the temporary committee that will be developing recommendations for the dispersal of the funds from the sale of the Elk Grove property. Prayers of thanksgiving were also offered for God’s generous provision for the vision that He has already given to the classis.

VI. CLASSIS MINISTER’S REPORT

Tim Vink was welcomed back to the classis to give his final Classis Minister Report and to report on his new assignment as the denominational Coordinator for Church Multiplication. He related how God had prepared and led him into the responsibility for leading and directing the denomination’s 10-Year Goal for church multiplication. The goal is to have 600 RCA churches become planting churches. Tim reported that the Synod of the Great Lakes already has 51 churches prepared to reproduce. He challenged our classis to continue the good work that began with the 20/20 vision in 1997. “Make daily decisions to shape your destiny!”

Don Werkhoven paid tribute to Tim for his 9 years as Senior Pastor at Tulare Community Church and nearly four years as Classis Minister. Don said, “Although we hate to see you go, we send you knowing that your time among us has prepared you for the task ahead.” Don presented Tim with a recognition plaque on behalf of classis.

Karl Overbeek read the following tribute:

“It’s not everyday you get to meet and make friends with an extra-ordinary person like Tim Vink. We knew when Tim was called to Tulare that he was a gifted and wonderful human being, we just didn’t know to what extent. Now we know! Both Tulare Community Church and the Classis of Central California have forever been influenced and changed for the good. Who we are and what we are yet to become is punctuated with Holy Spirit excitement fostered by Tim’s confidence in the awesomeness of God.

“Thanks, brother Tim! We covenant today to move forward the work you have so faithfully started in our midst. We hesitate to say we will improve upon it—that’s hard to imagine, but we will do our very best to carry forward the bold vision of our classis which you helped to shape.

“While we are saddened by the realization that you will be geographically distanced from us, we know that in your new role we will remain connected and that knowledge greatly buffers the pain. In our more honest and spiritually rational moments, we are proud to know you are in the role of leading the church planting movement in our denomination. The truth be known, we can hardly contain our excitement knowing what God is going to do through you and your ministry.

“Thanks, brother Tim, from the bottom of our hearts, thanks.”

ACTION #7: M/S -- To record the words contained in the tribute to Tim Vink, given by Karl Overbeek, as an official resolution by the Classis. CARRIED.

The entire classis body gathered around Tim, offering prayers of thanksgiving for his ministry in Tulare and the Classis. Intercessory prayers were offered for the new tasks to which he has been called.

President Ben Sweet called the delegates attention to the recommendation of the Servant Team, contained in the Aug. 25, 05 Servant Team Minutes, regarding the nomination of Karl Overbeek for the Classis Minister position. Ben reported that he and Don Werkhoven interviewed Karl and reviewed the job description, duty statement (Attachment II) and compensation package with him (all remain nearly identical to that of Tim Vink’s). The duty statement indicates this is a “4/5 shared position with the Regional Synod – Classis 2.5 days per week, Synod 1.5 days per week.”

ACTION #8: M/S -- To approve the Classis Minister Duty Statement, dated August 25, 2005. CARRIED.

ACTION #9: M/S -- To approve the nomination of Karl Overbeek to the position/function of Classis Minister with annual compensation of $33,182 and administrative support of $3,000. CARRIED.

Karl spoke briefly of his vision for the classis and thanked the classis for the privilege of serving them in this capacity. He shared the following quote from Bill Hybels, “the local church is the hope of the world.” He reported that he is currently working on a curriculum to ensure that pastors have the necessary skills and training to be capable mentors in an effort to reproduce leaders.

The entire classis body gathered around Karl to offer prayers for his new responsibilities as classis minister.

VII. INFANT BAPTISM

Karl Overbeek led a discernment discussion that centered on a paper prepared by Chuck Van Engen regarding the baptism of infants. Increasingly our churches are reaching and including in membership people from all backgrounds and understanding of the role baptism plays in the life of followers of Jesus Christ. Increasingly, missional churches are being planted by new young leaders who are committed to evangelism and value baptism as a sign of the public profession of one’s faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. Future church planters may not be able to be ordained in the RCA as many do not accept a traditional definition of infant baptism. It was pointed out that no one was going to change anyone’s theology regarding infant baptism during the discussion today. After much discussion and debate the content of the Van Engen paper were affirmed with a commitment to keep this debate alive while not stifling a view that might differ from the ones we hold. We need to continually remind ourselves that the BCO makes no requirement of believing in infant baptism to be eligible for church membership, or ordination as an elder, or deacon.

Karl closed the discussion with prayer.

Adjournment for Lunch

During lunch Don Werkhoven presented Karl Overbeek with a plaque in appreciation for his 28 years of ministry in the Classis of Central California. He also presented Karl with custom made wooden shoes, replete with golf spikes. He reminded Karl “that although these shoes would float, he shouldn’t conclude that he could now walk on water.”

President Sweet called the afternoon session to order with prayer at 1:10 p.m.

VIII. COMMISSION REPORTS

Congregational Development and Renewal Commission – Beryl Banks, Moderator

· Beryl reported that eight classis pastors will be attending a coaching seminar in Minneapolis next week.

· He reminded the delegates of the Roundtable Event with Paul Borden at Christ Community Church on Nov. 1. Contact Don Werkhoven to reserve a spot. All participants are expected to have read Borden’s book, Hit the Bullseye.

· Also on Nov. 1 is the seminar with Reggie McNeal at Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church.

Leadership Development Commission – Jerry Davelaar, Moderator

· Jerry reported on the Classis-wide prayer ministry that Barb Schutt is heading up. Barb is working to find a designated prayer leader for every church in the classis – currently just 4 churches have provided her with the name of their prayer leader. Barb is also seeking 25 prayer warriors for each new church plant. Jerry also reported that Barb has agreed to chair the denominational Houses of Prayer Equpping Team (HOPE). It is the desire of the HOPE team that each church in the denomination become a ‘House of Prayer.’

· Jerry reported that Richard Evers, Minister Emeritus, has consented to chair the Student Care Committee. He also reported that the Student Care Committee examined Steve and Hope Germoso and Pomin Wang yesterday and each are recommended for Provisional Certificate of Licensure.

ACTION #10: M/S -- To grant Provisional Certificate of Licensure to Steven Germoso, Hope Germoso, and Pomin Wang. CARRIED.

· The LD Commission recommended that Dave Schutt become the Moderator of the Leadership Development Commission.

ACTION #11: M/S -- To approve the nomination of Rev. Dave Schutt as Moderator of the Leadership Development Commission. CARRIED.

· Jerry also reported that the LD Commission is seeking nominees for the positions of Moderator of the Relationship Development Commission, Congregation Development and Renewal Commission, and Vice President of Classis.

The entire classis body gathered around the Germoso’s and Pomin Wang to pray for their continued seminary studies and fruitfulness in future ministry.

New Church Development Commission – Jim Schoon, Moderator

Commission Moderator Schoon directed the attention of the delegates to the NCD report dated August 25, 05. He cited the many blessings in terms of church planting that we didn’t anticipate five years ago.

Jim introduced Ron and Leanne Nunez who have begun a Hispanic ministry utilizing the Community Reformed Church facilities in Oakland. Two weeks ago Ron started two distinct worship services and has a vision for bringing healing to the broken and hurting Sobrante Park neighborhood. Ron recounted his life and spiritual pilgrimage that began as a child born into a non-Christian home in Central America. He immigrated with his parents to the Mission District of S.F. in his early teens. At age 15 he developed a curiosity about God and a few years later accepted Christ as his Savior and Lord. He attended and graduated from a bible college but the death of his first born son threw him for a loop. He has since regained his footing and is now prepared to work for the Lord in ministry. They are elated that Leanne is again pregnant.

Moderator Schoon reported that the Community Reformed Church pastor search team has nearly completed their work and are prepared to recommend Rev. Jeffery M. Parker, Sr., for their vacant pastor position. Jim commended the pastor search team, particularly V.P. Paul Butler, for their/his excellent work in holding things together during this interim period.

Jim also introduced Joel Harlow who was recently hired by The Journey as a new church planter in the San Jose area. Joel explained his vision as “transforming the malls of America into God-honoring communities.”

The NCD Commission received and recommended approval of Applications for Placement in the Denominational Plan from Iglesia de la Cruz in Modesto and Grace Gospel Christian Church in Foster City.

ACTION #12: M/S -- To approve the approval of Applications for Placement in the Denomination Plan received from Iglesia de la Cruz of Modesto and Grace Gospel Christian Church of Foster City. CARRIED.

Relationship Development Commission Report -- Don Werkhoven, Stated Clerk

· Elder and Consistory Minute Review: The following Elder and Consistory Minutes were review and found to be acceptable: Christ Community, New Hope Community, Living Faith Community, Hope Community, Sunrise Community, Cornerstone Community, Church of the Cross, Calvary. The minutes from Miraloma Community were not available for review and will be re-scheduled for review at the Spring 06 Stated Session.

· Salary Scale Report: Don directed the delegates attention to the 2006 Salary Scale Report, dated Aug. 11, 05. He pointed out that the recommended adjustment to the minimum base salary scale was based on the Federal Consumer Prince Index (CPI) for the Western Region. The average CPI for the Western Region for the 12-month period ending July 2005 was 3.3%. The standard housing allowance continues to be based on the average rent of a 3-bedroom, 2-bath single family dwelling within a 5-mile radius of the church, plus utilities. Because it is anticipated that the IRS is likely to modify the mileage allowance figure in early 2006, it was recommended that the adjustment to mileage reimbursement be made at that time. The Salary Scale Committee recommended the following base salary scale for 2006 for ordained Ministers of Word and Sacrament and Commissioned Pastors:

Geographic Area	0-2 Years	3-5 Years	6-10 Years	11+ Years
S.F. Bay Area	$43,278	$46,697	$48,081	$49,837
Sacramento Area	$42,663	$46,025	$47,394	$49,124
San Joaquin Valley	$42,043	$45,364	$46,712	$48,417

ACTION #13: M/S -- To approve the minimum salary scale for 2006 as recommended by the Salary Scale Committee. CARRIED.

ACTION #14: M/S -- To delay the adjustment in the mileage reimbursement rate until the IRS figure is available in early 2006. CARRIED.

ACTION #15: M/S -- To accept each of the Commission Reports as presented. CARRIED.

IX. STATED CLERK’S REPORT

· CCBA Update. Stated Clerk Don Werkhoven reported that he continues to work with the consistory of Christ Church in the Bay Area on dissolution of their relationship with the RCA/Classis so that they might affiliate with the Mountain View Chinese Christian Church. He reported that CCBA is in the process of applying for independent tax-exempt status under Section 502 (c) (3) of the IRS Code. CCBA has pledged to return to the classis the entire amount the classis invested in planting this church ($76,500). Don estimated that all the work necessary for the dissolution of the relationship will be completed prior to the Spring 06 Stated Session.

· Grace Gospel Christian Church. Don reported that he is handling the financial recordkeeping for GGCC until they receive tax-exempt status from the IRS.

ACTION #16: M/S -- To accept the Stated Clerk’s Report as presented. CARRIED.

Intercessory prayers were offered in thanksgiving for the services that Don provides as Stated Clerk.

X. TREASURER’S REPORT

Treasurer Don Werkhoven distributed copies of the year-to-date Balance Sheet Report and Profit and Loss Budget vs. Actual Report. He pointed out approximately $12,000 in unbudgeted expenses have occurred, nearly $7,000 of which is related to the Elk Grove property sale and $4,000 in a one-time health insurance matching program for two pastors.

· 2006 Proposed Budget. Don distributed copies of the 2006 proposed budget. He reported a nearly 4% reduction in the assessments over 2005 (from $96.25 to $92.57). He pointed out the following new expense items: $3,000 for administrative support for the Stated Clerk and $15,000 matching EVCD grant for Iglesia de la Cruz.

ACTION #17: M/S -- To approve the 2006 Budget of $349,088 as presented. CARRIED.

Intercessory prayers were offered for the provisions that God has made available to the member churches in the classis and for their faithfulness in supporting the work of the classis.

XI. ANNOUNCEMENTS

· General Synod Delegates. Minister delegates to the 2006 General Synod are: Michael Scott and Russ Siders. Elder delegates: Daniel Ruiter (Sunrise C.C.) and Elisabeth Kersten (Christ Community).

· Spring 2006 Stated Session. Don announced that the Spring 2006 Stated Session would be held at Christ Community Church in Carmichael on Saturday, March 11, 2006.

Greg Young from Modesto was granted privilege of the floor. He reported that he just returned from six days in New Orleans as part of the disaster relief effort. He described the utter devastation and confusion that existed around the Superdome area where he spent most of his time. He encouraged donations to church organizations that appeared to be having the most impact on the situation.

XII. ADJOURNMENT AND CLOSING INTERCESSORY PRAYER

A season of intercessory prayer was offered for classis and denominational leaders, for the churches of the classis and for church planting and revitalization of churches throughout the denomination and classis.

ACTION #18: M/S -- To adjourn the 2005 Fall Stated Session of Classis. CARRIED.

Rev. Jerry Davelaar closed the 2005 Fall Stated Session with prayer at 2:52 p.m.

/s/ Ben Sweet September, 24, 2005

President Date

/s/ Don Werkhoven September 24, 2005

Stated Clerk Date

Web Posted: March 2, 2006

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